Packaging
Just like with the previous R8 and RS8 packaging, this is a great unboxing experience, which is similar to what I’m used to from Astell & Kern. It is a new standard for high-end audio unboxing and HiBy continues to offer the same.
As the pictures show, the R8 II comes in a premium box but not similar to the original R8 and the RS8, which came in with bigger and more extensive packaging. So the R8 II is a bit of a downgrade in terms of pure luxury and premium feel, but I also think the previous flagship boxes were a bit over the top. This is more subdued and down the earth, but still premium.
You can check out the official unboxing video below to get a better idea:
Design
We see one of the most assertive and authentic designs in the whole DAP market with the R8 II. HiBy had the ambition to introduce something fresh and different to the market, and they did just that. The new player has a full stainless steel design, which looks gorgeous and luxurious without a shadow of a doubt.
This curvy and asymmetrical new design language was first unveiled with the R6 Pro II and now is further improved and enhanced. I have to say, even the last year’s TOTL RS8 looks older and dated compared to this. Sure, the RS8 has its own serious and heavy look with the titanium chassis, but the R8 II to me is something else, which is very elegant.
Alcantara
HiBy also added an Alcantara back panel to the stainless steel design. This has been the biggest surprise for the design part and HiBy used a luxury sports car feeling to market the new player, so they included sportscar photos together with other luxurious/elegant vibes.
A&K is considered the pioneer in the DAP market with premium designs and authentic looks, but I think HiBy can be considered one of the best brands to create a seriously good-looking unit, and now they have a consistent brand/design image. You can now instantly recognize a HiBy DAP from afar, which is a very good thing for a brand.
Sturdy Build
The new R8 II is a solid rock device in terms of the chassis, buttons, screen and ports. It’s fantastic from top to bottom, and I’m sure it would serve for many years for any individual. My only concern is the back panel, which is a magnet for dust and other stuff that can make it wear over time.
Big Footprint
The new R8 II is a huge device. It’s even bigger than the RS8 model, which to me was quite a surprise. From the photographs, it looked rather smaller than in real life. It has heft and weight to the extent that it’s not easy to use it outside. DAP manufacturers certainly took advantage of the larger screen size in the smartphone market, and DAPs got bigger and bigger as a result.
I remember the times when the AK240, which was the top-end player that you could buy at the time, was almost only half in size compared to today’s TOTL units. I can’t imagine what an RS8 successor would look like, but I guess we’ll see it soon.
Lay Out
The layout is simple but it works very well. On the front, you have the gorgeous 5.9” touch screen and on the back an Alcantara texture with the HiBy logo. On the left are the volume buttons and on the right the controls, power button, and MicroSD slot. There’s an LED on the power button that displays different colours based on the audio format of the file in use. Blue means nothing is playing, yellow is 16/44, cyan is 24-bit audio and DSD. Charging is red in a pulsating cycle (5 in quick charge, 1 in normal charge mode).
On the bottom, you have a 4.4mm balanced headphone out, 3.5mm headphone out, USB-C out, 3.5mm Line Out and the 4.4mm balanced LO. There’s nothing on top of the device.
Accessories & Price
Accessory-wise we this time get:
- TPU/Alcantara Case
- USB-C cable
- Screen/Port Film Protectors
The case is rather interesting and a bit out of this world. There’s nothing like it, to be honest. I don’t think it looks great when I look at it from a purely aesthetic perspective, but it works nicely when you have it in your hand. It has Alcantara sides that provide a very good grip and comfort when holding the device, but the TPU areas don’t give a premium impression to me. But it surely is a practical case for holding the device in your hand.
The HiBy R 8 II, as a high-end audio player, doesn’t come cheap. It is priced at $1,999 USD. HiBy has already proven that it can create very capable, high-performing DAPs with the RS8 and R6 Pro II, so asking for a premium is understandable to me.
Firmware / User Interface / Usability / HiBy Software
Navigating the HiBy R8 II is a breeze, thanks to its seamless integration with the Android platform. Powered by a reliable 665 CPU, this premium DAP effortlessly handles all tasks, ensuring a smooth user experience. If you’re accustomed to using Android-based devices, you’ll feel right at home with the R8 II, which comes equipped with all the latest features of Android 12.
While I do miss the volume wheel found on the RS8, the sleek design direction of the R8 II is undeniably appealing. The generously sized screen further elevates the user experience, reminiscent of the improvements seen in the R6 Pro II, with its excellent screen-to-body ratio.
However, I observed two small drawbacks. Firstly, the positioning of the power button becomes less accessible when the case is fitted, as it is tucked under a cut-out, seemingly to prevent accidental clicks. While this design intention is nice, it inadvertently makes pressing the power button more cumbersome. Additionally, the playback buttons on the right side are overly sensitive, leading to unintended clicks, especially when the case is on and the device is gripped tightly.
Despite these minor observations, using the HiBy R8 II has been largely problem-free. Its robust performance, coupled with the familiarity of the Android platform makes it a joy to use.
With its Android platform, you can effortlessly download and install your favourite apps such as Spotify, Qobuz, and Tidal onto the HiBy R8 II. Additionally, it comes preinstalled with the HiBy Music app, offering users a comprehensive audio playback solution out of the box. While we won’t delve into the specifics of the HiBy app in this review, readers can refer to previous HiBy reviews for more information.
In terms of battery life, the HiBy R8 II is equipped with a substantial 1200mAh battery, providing ample listening time for extended listening sessions. Similar to its predecessor, the RS8, the R8 II boasts impressive battery performance, delivering reliable power throughout. While I haven’t conducted detailed battery tests, my experience with the device has been positive, with the battery holding up well under typical usage scenarios. However, actual battery life may vary depending on factors such as screen usage, streaming activities, and volume levels.
Charging the R8 II is a relatively quick process thanks to its support for quick charging. However, due to the large battery capacity, a full charge may still take some time.
Page 1: Intro, Features
Page 3: Sound, Comparisons
Page 4: Synergy, Conclusion
Stefano
Thanks for the great review. It would be interesting to compare in terms of r2r sound with the AK se300 which is perhaps the direct competitor in terms of price. Thank you.
Mario
In your opinion (and tests), what has the biggest influence on this “neutrality” in the sound signature, mostly the DAC or the AMP section?
Alex
Hello, is it possible to compare this device – HiBy R8 II with such outstanding devices as Chord Electronics Hugo 1,2 or even Chord Electronics Hugo TT2. And if possible, does the HiBy R8 II, in your subjective opinion, surpass them in sound or not?